Perkins Highlights High Power Density Engines and Hybrid Solutions at CONEXPO 2026

Perkins introduced a new high power density engine and showcased hybrid and battery-electric power solutions at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 in Las Vegas. The company’s exhibit in the South Hall featured internal combustion engines, alternative fuel developments, connectivity solutions and lifecycle support programs.

New 904 Series Engine

Perkins launched a new 173 hp (129 kW) variant of its 904 Series, the 904J-E36TTA. The 3.6 litre engine is designed to deliver 546 lb ft (740 Nm) of torque at 1500 rpm and is engineered with a strengthened core and twin turbo to support increased power response and altitude capability.

The engine meets EU Stage V, U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and Korea Stage V emissions standards. It supports up to 1000-hour oil and fuel filter intervals and is compatible with B20 biodiesel blends and 100% hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), provided fuels meet Perkins specifications.

The 173 hp model joins existing 904 Series offerings and is intended for applications including wheel excavators, dumper trucks, soil compactors, backhoe loaders, asphalt pavers and telehandlers.

“We’re proud to introduce the latest 904 Series engine, a high-power addition to our full diesel line-up which is built for our customers’ toughest challenges,” says Richard. “The new twin-turbo 173 horsepower (129 kW) engine has been specifically designed to meet customers’ ongoing needs for higher torque, greater uptime, and lower total operating costs. It offers serious power from a small package, thereby boosting machine capability without increasing the engine size or its complexity.”

Hydrogen Hybrid Industrial Open Power Unit

CONEXPO also marked the public debut of Perkins’ fuel-configurable hybridised industrial open power unit, known as Project Coeus. Developed in partnership with Equipmake and Loughborough University’s Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering, the unit has completed development testing using hydrogen fuel.

Based on the Perkins 1200 Series platform, the 1206 hydrogen hybrid IOPU delivers a combined 508 hp (379 kW) and 1938 Nm at 1200–1500 rpm, integrating an engine and motor generator unit. The system supports spark-ignited fuels including ethanol, methanol, bio-methane and hydrogen.

2600 Series and Battery-Electric Demonstrator

Perkins also displayed its 13-litre 2600 Series diesel platform, offering power ratings from 456 to 690 hp (340 to 515 kW) and up to 3,200 Nm of peak torque. The platform is designed to meet emissions standards in regulated markets and supports renewable liquid fuels that meet Perkins specifications.

A battery-electric power unit technical demonstrator was shown installed in a McElroy TracStar 900i pipe fusion machine. The plug-and-play system is designed to fit within the same chassis space and interface points as the 3.6 litre IOPU it replaces. It delivers 130 hp (95.5 kW) and 750 Nm at 1200 rpm. The unit completed development testing in the UK and U.S. and will begin field trials following CONEXPO.

Connectivity and Lifecycle Support

Perkins highlighted its digital connectivity and condition monitoring solutions, including Perkins Interlink and API-based options, as well as eCommerce storefront expansions in the U.S., UK, France and Italy. The company also promoted overhaul kits, service replacement engines and support programs including Perkins Hypercare and Perkins Platinum Protection.

“We have helped and will continue to help industries navigate every major shift in power solutions, from fuel efficiency improvements to alternative fuels and electrification,” stated Richard. “We’re here to support what’s next, with smart solutions customers can trust and a team our customers and end users can always count on. Wherever our customers are, we’re there, because their success is our success.”